I wonder if going through the Menopause I did have Menopause and Muscle Tightness but put it down to the gym or my ongoing joint issues, but the more I have researched it, the more familiar the symptoms are to me! This is a more common issue with the Menopause than I first thought, as well as getting older, muscle tension can be linked to stress and anxiety during Menopause. Muscle tension is the feeling that the muscles are always tight and can be quite painful and an ongoing persistent problem. Cramps can also be a sign of muscle tightness too and happen to any part of the body.
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What causes Menopause and Muscle Tightness?
With Oestrogen and Progesterone fluctuating, it is the hormonal imbalance that is the main cause of tight muscles. Both of these hormones play a part in causing this condition, low Oestrogen causes the levels of Cortisol to rise, raising blood pressure and blood sugar levels. The high level of cortisol and low level of Oestrogen cause the muscle to tighten in the body. Progesterone has a calming effect on the body and mind, but when the levels begin to drop due to menopause, the muscles become tense.
Click here to read our menopause and joint pain blog!
A foam roller is a cheap but great purchase for muscle tightness, I would highly recommend purchasing one of these!
The muscles most commonly affected by this are:
Back, shoulders, and neck which in some cases can led to tension headaches. Mainly in the upper part of the body, but it can be all over that hurts at times. For some women it can lead to a bad and restless night’s sleep.
These foam roller sticks are great for massaging and are really portable to bring on the go!
Other factors that can cause Tight Muscles:
- Anxiety
- Stress
- Lack of Exercise
- Bad posture
What can you do for Tight Muscles?
It is mainly lifestyle changes that will combat Muscle Tightness, but there are some supplements that can help too.
- Stretching- Gently stretching your muscles can help ease the stiffness and pain.
Magnesium – If you have low levels of magnesium in your body it can cause muscle cramps. Taking a good quality supplement can help and making sure your diet is rich in magnesium too, I love this Magnesium from Natures Best!
Exercise – Gentle but regular exercise is crucial for lessening muscle pain and can loosen the tension and pain. Walking, swimming, and cycling are great to reduce the effects of this symptom too. Wiggle have a lot of exercise clothes and equipment and have some great discounts!
- Diet – As well as magnesium rich foods, eating an iron rich well balanced diet and nutrient rich diet will relieve stress and muscle tension.
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- Heat – A hot/warm shower or soak in the bath is great for soothing muscles, and a heat pack applied to the muscle can relieve pain.
- Posture – Lots of people don’t think about their posture and the long-term effects and pressure it puts on their joints and muscles. It can affect any group of muscles but tends to be the back, neck, shoulders and hips.
- Deep tissue massage – This can help your body’s circulation and soothe muscle tightness to help with relaxation and reduce your stress levels.
Herbal and Conventional Medicines:
You can buy over the counter pain relievers such as Paracetamol and Anti-inflammatory tablets for short term use, but if the problem persists you should see your GP. They may be able to offer alternate medication you can take and ensure it does not interfere with anything else you are currently taking. Herbal remedies may help as the muscle pain is down to hormonal imbalances, Soya Isoflavones can be great for naturally balancing Oestrogen, and another good natural supplement is Vitamin D, as it can aid muscle tension.
There are lots of different ways to relieve Muscle Tightness, always speak to your GP if you are struggling to resolve this at home or go to your local pharmacy.
Be sure to click the link below to see more blogs on the Menopause!
https://www.theexecutivemenopausecoach.com/category/the-menopause-lounge/
*DISCLAIMER*This page does not provide medical advice; it is intended for informational purposes only and is based upon my opinion and experiences. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on The Executive Menopause Coach website. Always seek professional medical advice.
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